Array of issues facing schools and teachers as classes resume

While the biggest uncertainties hang on the upcoming earlier-than-usual budget, many other issues face schools and teachers as classes resume.

These are some of the talking points likely to fill the air in staff rooms as close to 900,000 children take their places.

* The Association of Secondary Teachers Ireland (ASTI) and Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) will vote next month on whether to accept or reject the Haddington Road deal. They remain the only two, large public service unions not signed up to the agreement.